Cycle the Coast of Kerala
Experience Overview
Kerala is seemingly tailormade for an easy-going cycling adventure: an idyllic coastline, tranquil backwaters, and a welcoming population always ready with a wave or a smile. On this guided adventure, we cycle from the old spice port of Kochi (Cochin) to the sweeping beaches of Varkala. That’s balanced with time to experience the local culture: sampling South Indian cuisine, spending a night in a village homestay and cruising the backwaters on a traditional houseboat.
Profile
— Accommodation: 2 Superior nights (hotel), 4 Classic nights (3 hotel, 1 houseboat), 1 Simple night (homestay) — Six days of cycling, including one optional ride and a bike tour of Kochi, with full vehicle support — Mostly surfaced roads with a few rough sections — Group normally 4 to 14, plus leader and driver. Minimum age: 16 — E-bikes available for a supplement
At a Glance
— Accommodation: 2 Superior nights (hotel), 4 Classic nights (3 hotel, 1 houseboat), 1 Simple night (homestay) — Six days of cycling, including one optional ride and a bike tour of Kochi, with full vehicle support — Mostly surfaced roads with a few rough sections — Group normally 4 to 14, plus leader and driver. Minimum age: 16 — E-bikes available for a supplement
Trip For You
This trip is rated Activity Level 2 (Easy & Moderate). For more information on our trip gradings please visit our Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
Number of days cycling: Six, including one optional ride and a bike tour of KochiFull vehicle supportDaily distance: 15.5mi-37mi (25km-60km)Terrain and route: Mostly surfaced roads (which can be rough in places) including plenty of quiet backroads with low traffic levels, but traffic does increase approaching towns. The support vehicle is always available if required. The cycling consists of mostly half-day rides, allowing time to explore the sights and relax at your hotel
Monuments: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is responsible for the conservation of many monuments in India and very occasionally this may mean work is taking place at sites visited on this trip. The ASI schedule is never published so it is not possible to forewarn when work will be taking place.
Group Description
Our Indian team of leaders has proved very popular with their incredible knowledge, passion and hospitality adding greatly to the experience. There is no better way to experience Indian culture than letting an Indian guide show you around their country.
Eating Drinking
All breakfasts, four lunches and two dinners included.
Where food is not included, allow at least 1,650 rupees (approximately US$20) per day for lunch and dinner. You can eat out very cheaply in India, but if you mainly eat at the more expensive restaurants, you will spend more than the suggested amount. Please note, service in restaurants can be quite slow.
Lunches on riding days are usually taken in roadside cafes, allowing us to sample South Indian dishes such as poori (deep-fried bread served with curry) and dosa (thin pancake made with fermented rice and lentil batter). South Indian food is heavily influenced by the tropical landscape: creamy coconut dishes enlivened with delicate spices, served on a banana leaf. It’s also an ideal destination if you are vegetarian.
Tea and soft drinks are very cheap; a (large) bottle of beer is approximately 410 rupees (US$5). Due to Kerala state laws, alcohol licenses are limited to one or two bars in each area and not all hotels are permitted to serve alcohol. The first day of every month and certain holidays in India are dry days, when no alcohol is permitted for sale.
Drinking water is provided in the support vehicle, where you can fill your bottle from the containers.
Transportation
All your luggage and personal belongings are carried by the support vehicle, which is a minibus. Transfers are in the air-conditioned minicoach. The support vehicle follows the riders most of the time, allowing you to cycle as much or as little as you like. However, there is limited seating in the vehicle, so it is not possible to accommodate the whole group at the same time.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Casino Hotel, Casino Building, KPK Menon Rd, Willingdon Island, Kochi, Kerala 682003
Phone: +91 484 286 4500
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately. Check-in is normally from midday
Airport: Cochin International Airport (COK)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately 1hr 20min drive from the airport. Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to Trivandrum Airport (TRV) for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Weather Information
The ideal time to visit is during the dry season from October to March. Days are hot and the nights warm, the average range of maximum daytime temperatures is 21C-35C (70F-95F) and 6C-20C (43F-68F) at night. Expect rain showers on November departures; however, they are usually quick and the sun normally comes out afterwards.
Mid-April and May is the hottest time of the year with highs of 32C-36C (89F-97F) with high humidity. The most important feature of the Indian climate is the monsoon. The main monsoon strikes the Kerala coast in late May and sweeps northward over the next month or so into July but this brings the humidity and temperatures down to 27C-30C (75F-86F) making August and September a pleasant shoulder season with lush green fields and forests and lower rainfall compared to the previous months.
Please note, swimming in the sea at Varkala is not always possible, depending on recent weather conditions.
Spending Money
Many sites now charge a small fee for camera use. Allow at least 600 rupees (approximately US$7) per day for personal expenditures such as snacks and soft drinks.
India has very good shopping opportunities, especially for locally made goods. During your trip, it is highly likely your local guides will take you to emporiums and workshops where these goods are made. Many people find this a great opportunity to buy local handicrafts, silk and carpets. Guides often assume visitors want to go shopping, it is very much part of the culture, but if you do not wish to go, please make this clear to your local guide at the time.
Optional activities
Additional optional activities are as follows:
Fort Kochi:
— Kathakali dance show: 700 rupees (approximately US$9) per person, based on a minimum of four people
Tipping
Tipping is part of the culture in India. However, it can often be an awkward affair, especially when you’re in an unfamiliar country. As such, your tour leader will offer to arrange and look after a tipping kitty, which is used to tip hotel staff, local guides, airport transfer drivers and other support staff on the trip.
Your tour leader will suggest how much to contribute, depending on group size, but it is usually around 3,200-3,600 rupees (US$39-US$44) per person. At any time during the trip, your tour leader will be happy to show you an account of how the kitty is being distributed.
Tips for the tour leader and drivers and cycle crew are not included in the kitty and are at your own discretion. Our local leaders and staff are paid well and fairly for their work; however, if you wish to show your appreciation, our recommendation is as follows:
For the driver, assistant leader, and mechanic: Around 350-440 rupees (approximately US$4.50-US$5.50) per passenger per dayFor the tour leader: Around 350-440 rupees (US$4.50-US$5.50) per person per day.
Where possible, please try to tip in the local currency.
Highlights
— Cycle the coast and backwaters of Kerala, guided by our expert tour leader — Discover the old spice town of Kochion a culture-filled bike ride — Enjoy traditional Keralan hospitality with a night in a village homestay — Cruise the backwaters and stay on a converted houseboat — Unwind on the sandy beaches of Varkala – the perfect end to the trip!
Trip Details
Product Code: 4287
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: ame time.
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Exodus Travel
Supplier Code: MIA
Starts: Kochi (Cochin), India
Finishes: Kochi (Cochin), India
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Unknown
Includes
— Explore the old spice town of Cochin — Experience warm hospitality in a village homestay — Cruise the backwaters on a traditional houseboat — Relax on the sandy beaches of VarkalaAccommodation
Hotels, houseboat and homestayAccommodation on this cycling adventure in Kerala includes five nights in hotels with pools, one night on a houseboat and one night in a homestay. The accommodations typically used are on the day-to-day itinerary. However, below are a few of the notable places we stay on this trip. Chennamkary: Gaaby World Community Homestay (night 4) Go beyond the traditional hotel with an experiential night at this welcoming homestay. Accommodation is spread across several houses owned by different families. It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience warm Keralan hospitality, plus we enjoy a cooking demonstration in the evening, followed by dinner. To Thrikkunnapuzha: Houseboat (night 5) No trip to Kerala is complete without a houseboat stay. Typically, the boats are converted barges (known locally as kettuvallam), once used to transport rice from farm to market. All cabins have private bathrooms and the staff will keep you well fed. The houseboats have a deck and dining area, although the style/layout varies between boats. There is a cook, driver and assistants for each boat and the food is traditional Keralan fare using local produce. Houseboats have two to five twin-bedded rooms. Larger groups may be split over several boats; however, the group reunites at riverside stops and the overnight anchor point where your leader is available. Varkala: Sajjoys Hotel (nights 6-7) On a clifftop, Sajjoys has stretching ocean views just a few moments away. Additionally, the area is consistently popular with our group: Varkala is laid-back and less touristy than other nearby coastal towns. The hotel itself has an outdoor swimming pool and restaurant serving Keralan cuisine and international dishes. Worth knowing Hotels in India usually do not have heating as there are really only a couple of months in the year when the weather can be cooler. You can, however, request more blankets or the hotel may be able to provide a standing heater for your room. Please talk to your tour leader if you need help in this matter.
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $2,660 ($332 /day)
Itinerary
The trip starts in the old spice port of Kochi, formerly Cochin. The Portuguese established a base here in the early 1500s, followed by the Dutch, who were forced to hand it over to the British in 1841. With a multicultural heritage, it is now the bustling commercial capital of Kerala. Warehouses still smell of tea, rickety bikes and hand-painted trucks fill the narrow streets, and food stalls stand on every corner. We get to explore this fascinating city properly tomorrow. Today, once the group has gathered, we can test and fit our bikes, ready for the adventures ahead. Accommodation: Casino Hotel (or similar)
Today is a good opportunity to get used to the bikes, exploring the historic town of Kochi by bike and on foot. Most of the major sights are in the Fort Kochi and Mattancherry areas. We visit St Francis Church, close to the hotel, where explorer Vasco da Gama was first buried, then head to the Dutch Palace in Mattancherry. Constructed by the Portuguese in 1568, it was gifted to the Maharaja of Kochi before the Dutch took it over. Close to the palace is Jew Town and the Paradesi Synagogue. Built in 1568 for the Jewish members of the local trading communities, it is adorned with hand-painted tiles from China and elegant Belgian chandeliers, all donations from wealthy merchants. The area around the synagogue, called Jew Street, is a heritage zone with many antique and handicraft shops. The fish market near the Chinese fishing nets is also worth a visit. Kochi is also a hub for Keralan arts, so this evening we enjoy a Kathakali dance performance, a form of religious dance and play unique to Kerala. Accommodation: Casino Hotel (or similar) Maximum elevation: 174ft (53m)
Riding out of Fort Kochi, we pass 500-year-old Portuguese villas, a striking contrast to the tiny fishermen huts dotted along the beach road, with their wooden boats pulled under the palm trees and nets hung out to dry. Many of these fishing villages are Christian. At Arthungal, we can rest under the shade of the coconut trees, sip tea and admire the view of the old stone church. Continuing along the coastal road, we head towards the backwaters of Muhamma. Kerala is renowned for its backwaters: a network of canals and lakes that we cruise on a traditional rice barge later in the trip. Tonight, we stay in a backwater resort overlooking Vembanad Lake. The veranda and the gardens are excellent spots for relaxing, while backwater life unfurls before us. Accommodation: Deshadan Backwater Resort (or similar) Maximum elevation: 89ft (27m)
Continue along the coastal road towards Alleppey, another start point for the backwater trips. Our ride takes us through Kainakary village, eventually reaching Chennamkary, a traditional village in the Kuttanad backwater region of Alleppey. Spend the night here in a homestay, arriving in time for lunch. It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience warm Keralan hospitality and we enjoy a cooking demonstration in the evening, followed by dinner. Accommodation: Gabby World Community Homestay (or similar) Maximum elevation: 85ft (26m)
We have a laid-back morning. You can either relax at the homestay or go on an optional short bike ride to explore the village. At midday, we board our houseboat for a backwater cruise to Thrikkunnapuzha. These converted rice barges consist of two-berth cabins with private bathrooms and have their own cook; depending on your group size, you may be divided over two or three boats. We stack our bikes on the side of the boat (we are saddle-free for the next 19 hours), a chance to unwind as we watch the world pass. Vessels of all sizes use the network of canals and lakes, with smaller boats ferrying passengers and goods between tiny communities on narrow spits of land. On one side of the canal, we see vast paddies, and on the other side are fishing nets and coconut trees. As the sun begins to set, the boats are moored together and we unite on the deck for sundowners and dinner. Accommodation: Houseboat Maximum elevation: 69ft (21m)
Breakfast is taken on the houseboat before we disembark, then enjoy a cliff-top ride to the laid-back beach town of Varkala. We set off along a quiet coastal road to Karunagapally, passing Amrithanadamayi Ashram, better known as the Hugging Mama Ashram, a spiritual retreat overlooking the backwaters. We stop for lunch en route before spending the next two nights at Varkala, staying close to one of the best beaches in India. With coffee bars, shops and yoga schools perched along the red sandstone cliff-top, this town is an excellent place to relax. Accommodation: Sajjoys Hotel (or similar) Maximum elevation: 75ft (23m)
Enjoy a small morning ride after breakfast to explore the surrounding coastal areas. Returning to the hotel by lunch, there is time to enjoy the beachside location and perhaps try one of the beach shack restaurants, which serve excellent seafood. We recommend trying tandoori dishes, the clay ovens give a more authentic taste to the breads and curries. Tonight, there is the option to enjoy a final group dinner at the hotel restaurant, which serves a variety of Keralan dishes. Accommodation: Sajjoys Hotel (or similar) Maximum elevation: 558ft (170m)
The trip ends after check-out. Start your return journey home or, if you’d like a little more time to explore, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
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Tour Operator
Exodus Travel
It’s all about adventure That is what Exodus was founded upon 50 years ago, and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on. At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved. This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday. Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments. See our history page for more details about how we began and how we have grown over the past 50 years. Never travelled with Exodus before? Visit our New to Exodus page for some useful, first-timer information.
In Business Since 1974
Reviews
Maxine Pollock - Traveled, May 2024
Fab trip Fantastic trip, enjoyed every second. Thoughts on Group Leader Our group leader Shibu was fantastic as were all of the team.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/27/2024
Rob - Traveled, February 2024
Cycling - The Best Way to Experience Kerala! I had a truly memorable week as part of a group of six, who cycled a total of 134 miles (215 km) from Willingdon Island, Fort Kochi to Varkala. The weather was georgeous and the scenery and food amazing. The sights and sounds of the real Kerala could not be experienced in a better way. Shibu our tour leader and Kingsley our mini bus driver and support assistant made it so easy just to relax and soak everything up. The support vehicle was always present to provide regular water top ups and snacks and always drove a good distance behind the last cyclist, (frequently me) so there was never any pressure to speed up. There are seemingly no rules of the road in India.! Lorries, cars, taxis, tuk tuks, motor bikes and cyclists simply move along in incredible harmony , somehow avoiding each other and the numerous animals and pedestrians occupying the streets, by sounding horns and bells constantly. Unlike European drivers, this is done in a very non aggressive way and is simply to alert other road users of a vehicles presence. You soon learn to join in with your bicycle bell! Most Inspirational Moment Cycling through towns and communities and experiencing the genuine friendliness and excitement of locals of all ages calling out and waving to our group as we passed through. Thoughts on Group Leader Shibu was an excellent tour leader. He briefed everybody clearly on where we were going and how far we were cycling. He broke each ride up into stages, so that we always knew the distances and times between stops and breaks. If we needed to negotiate a challenging junction, he ensured that everybody crossed safely. He also allowed individual group members to ride at their own pace, which I particularly enjoyed. Advice for Potential Travellers I was a little apprehensive about coping with the distances, as I am a very infrequent and casual cyclist at home, having never done more than 20 miles. Three of the group were keen cyclists and two of the others had opted for electric bikes, whereas I had a standard bike. I needn’t have worried, as the routes were all flat, apart from the odd bridge and the final day exploring Varkala, which was quite hilly. I was lucky enough that day to borrow an electric bike from one of the group who opted out and was so impressed with the assistance it provided, I would definitely recommend one to anybody in two minds about considering this trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/22/2024
Alex Barbier - Traveled, October 2023
A Cycling Adventure Through the Charms of Coastal Kerala: A Journey to Remember I recently had the pleasure of experiencing the incredible “Cycle the Coast of Kerala” trip with Exodus Travels, and it was an absolute dream come true. Every aspect of this journey, from the breathtaking landscapes to the exceptional guidance, exceeded all my expectations. The itinerary was meticulously planned, allowing us to soak up the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Kerala at our own pace. The cycling routes were well-chosen, taking us through picturesque coastal villages, lush greenery, and serene backwaters, offering an authentic glimpse into the soul of this beautiful region. The accommodations provided by Exodus were top-notch. From comfortable stays in charming local lodges to luxurious nights in beachside resorts, each place offered a unique experience, blending modern amenities with the traditional charm of Kerala. The trip leaders were incredibly knowledgeable, friendly, and always ready to offer support and guidance. Their deep understanding of the local culture, history, and geography truly enriched our journey, making it more than just a cycling adventure but an immersive cultural experience. Furthermore, the local cuisine was a highlight of the trip. From delectable seafood dishes to flavorful spices, every meal was a celebration of Kerala’s rich culinary heritage. The team made sure we got to savor the authentic flavors of the region, adding an unforgettable dimension to our travel experience. Overall, I cannot recommend this trip enough. It’s a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Exodus Travels has truly crafted a remarkable itinerary, leaving me with cherished memories and a profound appreciation for the beauty of Kerala. I will undoubtedly cherish the moments and look back on this trip with fondness for years to come. Thank you, Exodus, for an unforgettable experience! Most Inspirational Moment A particularly inspirational moment during the trip was our stay at a traditional homestay nestled amidst the lush greenery of a Kerala village. Engaging with the warm and welcoming local family, hearing their stories, and sharing in their everyday life offered a profound insight into the rich cultural fabric of Kerala. Experiencing their genuine hospitality, delicious home-cooked meals, and participating in their daily routines created a sense of kinship and belonging that transcended cultural boundaries. Thoughts on Group Leader Our group leader, Shibu, was an extraordinary guide whose passion for the region was infectious. His deep-rooted knowledge of the local culture, history, and natural wonders added an unparalleled depth to our journey. Shibu's unwavering dedication to ensuring our safety, comfort, and enjoyment was truly commendable. His friendly demeanor, coupled with his excellent organizational skills, fostered a sense of camaraderie within our group, making the trip not just an adventure but a shared experience of joy and discovery. Shibu's genuine enthusiasm and genuine care for each member of the group made our journey along the coast of Kerala all the more enriching and memorable. Advice for Potential Travellers Hydration is Key: Stay hydrated at all times by carrying a refillable water bottle and drinking water regularly, even if you do not feel thirsty. Replenishing lost fluids is crucial in combating the effects of heat and humidity. Light Clothing and Sun Protection: Opt for lightweight, breathable clothing that covers your skin to protect it from the sun. Additionally, use sunscreen with a high SPF, wear sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to shield yourself from the intense sunlight.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/25/2023
Yvette Fernley - Traveled, October 2019
Kerala is a gem! Spoiler alert: your senses may never be the same again – but in a good way! We visited Kerala over 20 years ago, but only scratched the surface. Exodus is very good at stripping away all that is unnecessary, to enable you to connect with Kerala and immerse yourself into Indian culture. Throw into the mix a great bunch of fellow cyclists and you strike gold. We had a blast! The trip notes describe pretty accurately what you will see and do. Every day has new experiences. Cycling is a gentle pace and when you do hit a busy town you are shepherded through effortlessly by the two guides. Oh, and the food is seriously good. Cauliflower has never tasted so delicious. Let the magic unfold, but it will be over all too soon. Most Inspirational Moment More special moments than inspirational, including the warm welcome we received wherever we went and whenever the crazy people on bikes went past. Everyone wants to meet you and smiles are everywhere but there is only time to shout ‘ Hello’. Lunch in our tour leader’s home (see below). The trip on the houseboat was special. And we got to see an elephant in the road, yeh! Thoughts on Group Leader Shibu goes the extra mile, including inviting us into his home for lunch involving the whole family. We were treated to a fabulous vegetarian meal on a banana leaf, prepared entirely by them all. Special shout-out to Shibu’s wife who was up at 4.00am to start cooking for us. His daughter and niece sang beautifully to us after the meal. They delighted us all. Shibu is responsible for designing the tour and has done so with great care and consideration to showcase Kerala and provide you with a great insight into its life, culture and landscapes. You could not put together an itinerary like this on your own; that’s what makes it special. His no. 2, Seekhar deserves a special mention: excellent English, knowledgeable and amusing, stopping the bus to rescue puppies lying in the middle of the road. All-round good guy. Advice for Potential Travellers Grab a bottle of your favourite tipple at the airport. Kerala is (partly) dry. Beer is cheapish, wine and spirits (where available) expensive. Take a lightweight cotton sleeping bag for the home stay, it may come in handy and don’t look too closely. On the last day cycling in Varkala, there are a couple of ‘cheeky’ hills to climb - be prepared.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/20/2019
nicole jordan - Traveled, May 2019
good The home stay was awful, it would have been good to have an option to have a stay at hotel instead. It’s not my idea of a holiday being a strangers house. People nice enough. Some environmental issues that were offensive, think Exodus should be insistent that the locals improve on. Most Inspirational Moment The scenery was beautiful and cycling the back waters was magical. Thoughts on Group Leader He was good, his english was not brilliant so hard to engage with him but he was attentive, thoughtful and did everything to make us have a pleasant time. Advice for Potential Travellers Take a sheet or lining for the home stay and expect the worst and you will ok.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/23/2019
Sonia Athwal - Traveled, February 2019
Well Organized Trip Well organized trip. The cycling route was very well thought out by our guide Shibu. The entire team of Shibu, Bevan, and Franklin took extra lengths to ensure we were well taken care of, and safe. Really great people leading us. My group was a good size (11), making is easy to interact and have fun. I recommend this trip to see Kerala up close. Most Inspirational Moment Less inspiring, but more exciting was seeing an elephant up close on the street, taking a stroll as we rode out bike by! Thoughts on Group Leader Shibu is a top notch guide. Advice for Potential Travellers Be aware that it gets very hot. Bring some sort of small pannier, or bum-bag (fanny pack) for camera and small needs. You won't need to carry a back pack - everything is on the bus.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/16/2019
Rex Yetton - Traveled, January 2019
Wow, what a trip Wow, I’m still buzzing a week after getting back from this trip. I have done several cycling trips with Exodus and this was my first one solo. The whole trip was amazing, along with a lovely group. We all got on really well and had lots of laughs. The cycling was flat and easy going. Cycling through the crazy Indian towns was surprisingly straightforward. ‘Good bell, good brakes and good luck’ is the motto! The Indians use their hooters and bells for spacial awareness and are very good at it. The friendly Indian children waving on their way to school has left a lasting impression. We cycled from 8am and only in the mornings. We stopped for tea and samosa, then for lunch. The hotels had lovely swimming pools. Swimming in the Indian Ocean waves on the last two days was lovely. None of us had any tummy issues. Joseph always had nice restaurants and the best seats reserved for us. Most Inspirational Moment Cycling with relative ease through the crazy Indian towns. The friendly waves as we cycled along. Seeing the sights, sounds and smells of the Indian culture. Swimming in the hotel pools and Indian Ocean. Coping relatively easily with Indian food. Getting on so well with my group The lovely warm weather. Thoughts on Group Leader Joseph was perfect. He was very patient. There were various dietary and other issues for him to cope with. He always told us about the Indian culture and food. He would stop along the road and showed us various fruits growing. The back up crew, Bevan, a young lad at the back and Franglin our driver who never gave way for anyone! Advice for Potential Travellers If you want to see India and have a relatively gentle cycle ride too, this is absolutely perfect. There is plenty of down time to swim or take it easy. The homestay and houseboat were both an experience. The week just flew by unfortunately. Before I knew it we were saying our farewells and on the flight home.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/17/2019
Geoff Cooper - Traveled, January 2019
Fantastic trip This was a lovely trip showing Kerala at its best. Our guide was simply outstanding which left us with a lasting memory of the beautiful part of India. Very easy cycling with no climbs at all, until a couple of small ones on the optional last day cycling. Most Inspirational Moment The visit to Varkala Fort and Lighthouse was a beautiful ending to the trip. Thoughts on Group Leader Joseph our leader was brilliant. He and his team could not have done any more to make it a great holiday. Advice for Potential Travellers If you are not on the group flight, then you should avoid Mumbai airport as a transit point, at all costs. We missed our 2hr connection due to the chaotic miss management by the local staff.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/23/2019
Liz Laird - Traveled, December 2018
I loved every minute of it! Just before I went I was getting apprehensive that I was spending 8 days with 13 other people I had never met, to share a room with someone I didn’t know, to cycle for 6 days in an unknown country and stay overnight in 5 different locations! I don’t know what I was worried about, I had the absolute time of my life! The people, the country, the food, the guides, the scenery, the accommodation, the cycling; everything was perfect! Most Inspirational Moment Whilst we were there a strike was called in Kerala; a state-wide bandh after two women entered the Sabarimala Temple. This meant that nobody was able to work from 6am - 6pm so we would have to cycle 55 miles instead of 25 miles as there would be no buses, plus we would not have our support vehicle and water, tea and lunch stops could be an issue. Shibu our tour guide was amazing as he still managed to sort out stops for us and as a group we all rallied together and were so supportive that the 55 miles were not an issue. Plus the upside of the strike was the roads were quiet! What a day and one I will always remember for the camaraderie, experience and laughs! Thoughts on Group Leader Shibu was fantastic as were Sherga who rode at the back and Franglin in the support vehicle. We couldn't of had better guides. Advice for Potential Travellers Go to Kerala it is amazing!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/24/2019
miny j - Traveled, December 2018
A fabulous trip! Our action-packed week was a wonderful way to explore this beautiful region. Going along on a bike allowed us to experience colours, sights, smells and sounds so much better than if we had traveled around by coach. It allowed us to spontaneously pop onto the beach, visit temples and sample local delicacies. And cycling in the hectic traffic proved no great problem, just keep ringing your bell! Most Inspirational Moment I was most touched by the warm welcome we were given everywhere as we travelled around. The people we met could not have friendlier and that is what really stands out for me when I think back. And of course all the delicious meals. Kerala is not only paradise for vegetarians, there is plenty of tasty fish and seafood too, as well as meat dishes. Thoughts on Group Leader Our groupleader, Safi, was a great guy, well organised, friendly and a font of information on all things local. An experienced cyclist himself, he gave us great confidence in managing the traffic. We went at an easy pace, well suited to the heat and humidity. With Kamaru and Santhosh the three of them made a great team, always making sure everyone was fine and every thing was in order. Advice for Potential Travellers You will find the week flying by as each day brings new sights and experiences. I enjoyed the variety of activities during the week. You do not need to worry too much about what to wear on the bike, even Lycra seemed to be acceptable. Just make sure you are well protected from the sun and the insects. We usually did the cycling in the morning, leaving the afternoons for walks or a dance performance, beach, the pool, lazying on the houseboat or doing some shopping. if you get a chance do not miss the martial arts performance in Cochin!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/16/2019
David Hindley - Traveled, January 2019
Cool trip Loved this trip. Well organised. Shibu was a very likeable trip leader. Shogar and Franklin as supporters were excellent too. I guarantee you’ll fall in love with the smiles of the people of Kerala. Great activities. Very flat cycling! Only hills on the last day around Varkala, and then not serious. Only disappointment for me was the very poor quality of room at the Deshadan Hotel in Varkala. Most Inspirational Moment Cycling through the more remote towns as people waved and shouted “Happy New Year”. Thoughts on Group Leader Shibu was very likeable and dependable. He always did what he said and took good care of use. Advice for Potential Travellers If you are not a fan of hot and spicy food, like me, I’d suggest taking some small sealed containers of butter, jam, pate, etc to flavour rice, bread etc. If you like hot and spicy, you’ll be in food heaven!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/22/2019
Michelle Etheridge - Traveled, January 2019
fantastic country and people Just returned from this trip over Xmas and loved it. The pace and distances were just right, allowing us to soak in the atmosphere of the Country. Safi, our guide and his team were brilliant in every way. Patient, knowledgeable and helpful. The bikes were of very good quality and made it easy to cover the distances without too much effort. Most Inspirational Moment Loved the House boat trip, so peaceful and relaxing. Thoughts on Group Leader Safi was fantastic and helped to make the trip so enjoyable. Advice for Potential Travellers This trip is ideal if you've never done a cycling trip before. The distances and pace make it achievable for most people with a small level of fitness and most of it is flat, so no scary hills to tackle. Be aware that when staying at the homestay and on the boat, there is no hot water, so no hot showers, but don't let this put you off. The experiences of staying on the boat and at the homestay more than make up for the lack of hot water.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/29/2019
Lesley Skelly - Traveled, February 2018
Loved this trip it will be hard to beat! This was a most fabulous trip – a fantastic mix of cycling and sampling local culture. We had a really good guide Shibu and his team. We loved Kerala and the mix of experiences on this trip. We liked the level which was leisurely /moderate – ideal in such a hot country we wish there were more trips available at this level. We loved the food and have had withdrawal cravings on return to the UK from such delicious fare! We had a great group of people on this tour they also helped to make it a brilliant experience. Most Inspirational Moment There were many lovely moments. Cycling through the beautiful countryside with periods of cycling along the coast. Enough time to enjoy the scenery. Music which we could hear as we went past churches and temples. It seemed mystical. Sunrise on the backwaters. Cookery lesson at the home stay. Our guide always finding us a table in the evening with the best views! Thoughts on Group Leader Gorgeous person. He helped to resolve a dental emergency in a calm and efficient manner. Always supportive - we felt very safe under his guidance. Loved the dancing he arranged for us on the boat in the backwaters! He had a great team too who looked out for us in the areas with more traffic. Advice for Potential Travellers Definitely need good insect repellent - two of our group got caught out on the first day and their bites were a nuisance. We were very conservative in our dress and perhaps strappy tops and shorts would have been OK in most though perhaps not all places, as was cycling in Lycra. I found my baggy shorts a bit hot for cycling in this setting. We spent very little money during the trip - thanks to the wisdom of our guide. We added on to our trip - staying at the final hotel for extra days - that was also very enjoyable. Wine is quite expensive in Kerala - would be worth choosing another drink. You can always get on the bus if you are having a bad day!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/02/2018
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